I'm Only Wearing Elevated Basics for Spring, so I’m Buying These 10 Finds

I love to shop with a theme in mind — but in a practical way. For example, when Beyoncé dropped Cowboy Carter, I leaned into buying quality denim pieces because they can be Western-inspired depending on styling, but are still great for everyday wear. And now that spring is in full swing and summer is on the way, I’m thinking my next warm-weather clothing haul will be based around quiet luxury; not in the rich, no-labels kind of way, but quality, luxe-looking pieces by brands I love that won’t break the bank.

Below, I rounded up comfy denim from Levi’s, easy-to-style tops from Madewell, and breezy maxi skirts from Topshop — and they’re all under $100 on Nordstrom.

Madewell Eyelet Tie-Front Top, $78
Levi’s 501 Original High-Waist Straight-Leg Jeans, $64 (Originally $98)
Topshop Bias-Cut Satin Maxi Skirt, $34 (Originally $62)
Petal and Pup Dana Front-Slit Denim Midi Skirt, $69
Madewell The Harlow Wide-Leg Linen Pants, $88
En Saison Essie Belted Minidress, $77 (Originally $118)
Caslon Casual Gauze Button-Up Shirt, $60
Madewell Split Crewneck Cardigan Tank, $52
Levi's Baggy High-Waist Denim Shorts, $70
Open Edit Smooth Edit Strappy Midi Slipdress, $70

Madewell Eyelet Tie-Front Top

Nordstrom

I’m a former blouse designer, and the way we would make a top look and feel more expensive was by sourcing quality and unique fabrics, similar to this Eyelet Tie-Front Top from Madewell. The design catches your eye while the delicate and sheer eyelet fabric always looks expensive. It comes in a crisp white shade and sizes range from XXS to XL. The top features a functional tie detail at the front, four-button closure, deep v-neckline, and short flutter sleeve. The layering top is made from 100 percent cotton so it’s lightweight and breathable, and falls just a few inches above the hip for a more cropped look.

Levi’s 501 Original High-Waist Straight-Leg Jeans

Nordstrom

One of my favorite brands to shop for quality at a great price is Levi’s. These 501 Original High-Waist Straight-Leg Jeans have been on my wishlist for some time now, and they’re finally on sale for $64. Made from a non-stretch, 100 percent cotton denim, they come in a classic dark wash and sizes ranging from 23 to 32. They feature five pockets across the front and back, a classic zipper and button closure, a relaxed straight-leg fit that sits high on the waist, and a bit of distressing on the hem of the pants for a worn-in look.

Topshop Bias-Cut Satin Maxi Skirt

Nordstrom

Bias-cut styles like this Topshop Satin Maxi Skirt are one of the more luxurious silhouettes because despite being woven, the fabric will stretch, flow, and hug the figure like you were sewed into it. So if I can buy a bias-cut piece like this satin maxi for nearly 50 percent off, I’m not hesitating — especially since sizes are selling out quickly. The slip skirt comes in navy, gray, and ivory and sizes 0 through 14. It has a sleek, satin finish, an elastic waistband for easy on and off, and a straight silhouette that falls below the ankle without dragging.

Shop more luxe Nordstrom pieces for under $100, below.